Device for automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a single key code

ABSTRACT

A device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key code exceptionally suitable for maintaining a plurality of codes secret and making them available with the introduction of a key code, comprises a plurality of drums adapted to rotate around an axis and a plurality of inserts provided with visible faces suitable for carrying distinctive elements. The inserts are connected in a movable manner along the side edge of each of the said drums to form strings. The drums can be place side by side in an axial direction in order to align all the distinctive elements of a plurality of drums and are inserted on a rod that includes a first stop fixed to one end of the rod itself. A second stop is fixed to the opposite end and locked on the rod.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention concerns a device for automatic reading of aplurality of codes by means of a single key code.

More particularly, the invention refers to a device for example, in theform of a key ring or desk accessory or some similar item inside whichit is possible to enter access codes for mobile phones, automatic bankdistributor cards, credit cards, etc.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is well known that the use of computerised and/or electronic systemsrequires an increasing number of alphanumeric and/or word key codes foraccess to the services in question.

Certain examples of this type of code are those used for phone cards,automatic bank distributor cards, or credit cards. These can alsoinclude codes and combinations for safes or safety boxes, access codesto Internet sites or to burglar alarm systems.

It is obvious that the user must remember a certain number ofalphanumeric codes than, for security reasons, cannot be writtenanywhere that can be easily read by others. The difficulty inremembering all these essential alphanumeric codes is obvious, and inaddition this problem is increased by the fact codes need to be changedregularly for security reasons.

The facts stated above demonstrate the need for a device that cancontain all the secret codes without making the codes themselvesimmediately visible, and that can make all necessary codes available bysimply entering and remembering a single key code.

The basic problem in relation to the present invention is to provide adevice for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes through asingle key code, and whose structural and functional characteristics areable to satisfy said needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This problem can be solved by a device for automatic reading of aplurality of codes through a single key code as described in claim 1.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further characteristics and advantages provided by this device forautomatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a single key codeaccording to this invention will be easily understood from the followingdescription including preferred embodiment examples which are indicativebut by no means limiting, with reference to the attached drawingswherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a partial cross section side view of a deviceaccording to this invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a partial cross section side view of a detail of thedevice illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates an axonometric view of a possible embodiment of adetail shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 illustrates a view from above of the detail shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 illustrates a view from above of a possible embodiment of adetail shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective partial cross section view taken alongthe line VI-VI of the detail shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 illustrates a view from above of an embodiment of a detail shownin FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of a detail shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross section view taken along the line IX-IX ofthe detail shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic diagram of the system shown in FIG. 1that also corresponds with the layout of a possible embodiment of thedevice itself;

FIG. 11 illustrates an axonometric view of a detail of the system shownin FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 illustrates the axonometric view of the detail shown in FIG. 11in a cross section view taken along the line XII-XII shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a possible embodiment of thedevice according to the present invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 15 illustrates the horizontal section of the device shown in FIG.1;

FIG. 16 illustrates a cross section view taken along the line XVI-XVI ofthe device shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 illustrates a cross section view of FIG. 16 wherein certaindetails have been omitted to provide a clearer view of other details;

FIG. 18 illustrates a cross section view taken along the lineXVIII-XVIII of the device shown in FIG. 14;

FIG. 18 a illustrates a plan view of the device shown in FIG. 13 seenfrom underneath;

FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of a detail of the device shown in FIG.13;

FIG. 20 illustrates a cross section view taken along the line XX-XX ofthe detail shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 illustrates a side view of a detail of the device shown in FIG.13;

FIG. 22 illustrates a cross section view taken along the line XXII-XXIIof the detail shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 illustrates a cross section view taken along the lineXXIII-XXIII of the detail shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 illustrates a cross section view taken along the line XXIV-XXIVof the detail shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 25 illustrates the cross section view of FIG. 16 where certaindetails have been omitted to provide a clearer view of other details;

FIG. 26 illustrates the cross section view of FIG. 16 where certaindetails have been omitted to provide a clearer view of other details;

FIG. 27 illustrates the cross section view of FIG. 16 where certaindetails have been omitted to provide a clearer view of other details;

FIG. 28 illustrates a plan view of a detail of the device shown in FIG.13;

FIG. 29 illustrates a plan view of a detail of the device shown in FIG.13;

FIG. 30 illustrates a cross section taken along the line XXX-XXX of thedetail shown in FIG. 29;

FIGS. 31-33 illustrate the device shown in FIG. 18 in different workingconditions;

FIG. 34 illustrates a side view of a possible embodiment of a deviceaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 35 illustrates a view of the area shown by arrow XXXV of the deviceshown in FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 illustrates a view of the area shown by arrow XXXVI of thedevice shown in FIG. 34.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to these figures, the number 10 identifies the device forthe automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key code.

According to the example of embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the devicein question can, for example, assume the shape and size of a key ring oran accessory for application on a computer monitor or on an office desk,and can contain a set of drums 12 suitable for rotating around alongitudinal axis 14.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, eight drums have been foreseen, to bealigned alongside each other in the direction parallel to the axis 14.

An example of the embodiment of a drum 12 is illustrated in FIGS. 5-9and comprises a disk shaped plan 16 comprising at least one concentricring with respect to said axis 14. In correspondence with the axis 14,the disk plan 16 includes a through seat 18 of basically cylindricalform.

Around the external ring portion of disk plan 16 that forms theperimeter, are a set of pins 20, distributed at a uniform distance fromeach other, extending in a direction parallel to the rotation axis 14.These pins will be described further on as axial pins.

In the example shown in FIG. 5 or 6 the axial pins are preferablyvariable in diameter. In particular a first set of pins has beenforeseen with a larger diameter, and a second set of pins with a smallerdiameter. Preferably the pins of one set alternate with the pins of theother set.

Moreover, the pins illustrated in FIG. 5 or 6 present a structure thatis axially hollow.

A drum 12 also comprises means for stepwise rotation 22 in order torotate each drum by a pre-determined angle compared to the drumimmediately adjacent. A possible embodiment of the stepwise rotationmeans 22 is illustrated in FIG. 6 or 9 and provides that said stepwiserotation means 22 comprises a side wall 24 that extends from said plan16 in a co-axial manner to the through seat 18 and to the longitudinalaxis 14. This side wall 24 forms a cylindrical seat 26 co-axial with thethrough seat 18.

Advantageously, the internal surface of the side wall 24 presents aknurled portion with grooves and cogs formed in a direction parallel tothe axis 14.

Extending from the part opposite plan 16 with respect to wall 24 isanother cylindrical wall 30 that forms said through seat 18. Extendingradially from the external side surface of said further cylindrical wall30 are several ribs or small blades 32 that interact with the knurledportion 28 of the drum immediately adjacent.

Reference numeral 34 identifies in a general manner some insertsequipped with faces 36 carrying distinctive elements, such as, forexample, alphanumeric characters, or graphical symbols or even colours.One of these faces 36 will be visible in the assembled device.

The inserts 34 can assume various configurations. In FIG. 5 the drum 12is suitable for housing two types of inserts in alternating position. Afirst type of insert is a quadrangular based prism on which the fourside faces each carry a distinctive element. A second type of insert isa triangular based prism on which each of the three side faces carries adistinctive element.

Preferably, the adjacent inserts mounted on the respective drums are incontact with each other so that their side faces touch and are thereforenot visible from the outside of the device.

The inserts 34 are adapted to be connected in a releasable manner alongthe external side edge of each of the said drums 12, in other words, incorrespondence of the annular portion of plan 16. In fact, each insert34 has a seat 37 that is preferably cylindrical of a size suitable tohouse one of the axial pins 20. In particular, according to the exampleshown in FIG. 5, the pins with a larger diameter are designed tointeract with the inserts having a quadrangular base, while the pinswith a smaller diameter are intended for interacting with the triangularbase inserts.

The corresponding pins and prisms are preferably shaped so that theprisms can be attached and detached from the pins with slight pressure.

Reference numeral 38 indicates a rod adapted to receive the drums 12 setnext to each other in axial direction. In fact, the through seats 18form a seat suited to receive the rod 38 so that it forms the axis 14around which the drums rotate.

Preferably a stop 40 will be fixedly attached to one end of the rod 38.In the example illustrated in the figures, the first stop 40 is formedby a slightly convex disk with a radial extension equal to the radialextension of the drums.

Moreover a second stop 42 is provided (FIGS. 3 and 4) for insertion onthe rod 38 at the opposite end to that which is attached to the firststop 40. This stop is designed to be fixedly attached to the rod so thatit blocks the drums axially. In the example illustrated in the figures,the second stop 42 has the same form as the first stop 40 and isinserted in the rod 38 in a specular manner.

A locking member 44 prevents the drums 12 and the second stop 42 fromslipping from the rod. The drums are shaped so that they can be attachedto as to permit an axial rotation, or detached from each other withslight pressure. The locking member 44 is in form of a cap which can beinserted, preferably with a snap action onto the free end of the rod.

According to a possible embodiment, the locking member 44 comprises agripping device 46 that, in the examples shown in the figures, iscomposed of a ring that makes the device suitable for use as a key ring.

The assembly and the functional use of the device for automatic readingof a plurality of codes through a single key code illustrated previouslyand according to the present invention will be described further on.

The inserts 34 are combined with the relative drums by choosing theinsert and the respective visible face according to the key code and thecodes to be remembered. FIG. 10 shows the linear development of theexternal edge of certain drums, or in other words, the sequence of thevisible insert faces.

To simplify the description, the linear development of eight drums 12for the embodiment of the device shown in FIG. 1 have been indicatedwith the letters A to H.

According to the example in FIG. 10, each drum comprises a triangularbased insert alternated with a quadrangular based insert for a total oftwelve inserts 34. The triangular based inserts are identified with thereference numbers t1 to t6 while the quadrangular based inserts areidentified with numbers d1 to d6.

The drums 12, and in particular their linear development illustrated inFIG. 10 are positioned adjacently in a line parallel with axis 14 sothat the distinctive elements of several drums are aligned.

In the case of triangular based inserts, the side faces are three innumber and therefore it is possible to choose between three differentdistinctive elements in the case where these inserts are previouslypre-molded and pre-engraved. This is identical for the quadrangularbased inserts where there is a choice possibility among four differentdistinctive elements.

The development shown in FIG. 10 is an additional help for thecomposition of the drums 12 and therefore also for the choice of theinserts. Moreover, this figure also illustrates how the inserts 34 arecombined with each other in a removable configuration so that they forma plurality of strings formed by the sequence of the visible faces ofthe inserts adjacent to each other, for example like those indicated inthe rows A-H in FIG. 10.

The composition of each string is obtained by positioning both the keycode and the code to be remembered in the transversal direction of thestring itself, or in other words, in the axial direction in the case ofthe drums 12. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the column t1 could beused to show the key code, while the following columns d1, t2, d2, etccould be used to show the codes to be remembered (in the illustratedexample this can include up to twelve codes for credit cards, bankdistributor cards, mobile phone cards etc.)

Once the columns of figures have been completed as shown in FIG. 10, isimmediately available each row A-H corresponding to a string, andtherefore to the composition of a drum 12.

By following the diagram provided in FIG. 10 it is possible to choosethe inserts to be used for each drum, to insert them in the respectiveaxial pins 20, arranging them so that the distinctive element is visibleon the external edge of the drum. Alternatively it is possible to useinserts where the distinctive element can be written or engraveddirectly, thus avoiding the need of having a prepared set of inserts.

When all the drums have been completed, they are inserted in sequence inthe rod 38 so that they are adjacent to each other parallel to axis 14.

At the same time the stepwise rotation means 22 is assembled together asillustrated in the cross section portion in FIG. 1.

The second stop 42 and the locking member 44 are mounted to close theassembly.

Therefore the rod 38, the first stop 40, the second stop 42, and thelocking member 44 are the means for positioning the strings alongsideeach other in parallel mode so that the distinctive elements of severalstrings are aligned in a direction that is essentially transversal tothe direction of the string itself.

Through misaligning the columns t1-d6 by rotating the respective drums(in other words by making the strings A-H slide with respect to eachother) it becomes impossible to read the interesting codes. There are12⁸ possible combinations.

The secret codes that are read sideways between the strings are obtainedautomatically by rotating the drums (or by making the strings A-H slidewith respect to each other) and lining up the distinctive elements ofseveral strings/drums to form the key code along the transversaldirection with respect to the direction of each string (i.e.corresponding with the direction parallel to the axis 14).

As described above it is easy to understand how a device such as thatdescribed in the present invention allows a user to access to aplurality of codes for credit cards, numerical locks, bank distributors,or similar codes by simply remembering one single code.

This is made possible thanks to a device that according to a possibleembodiment can assume the form and size of a key ring, desk or computeraccessory. They are particularly compact and lightweight, and can bemade from any type of material from low cost to prestige materials.

A further advantage of the device as described in this invention is theabsolute simplicity of the device structure, resulting in low productioncosts.

Of course other variants and/or additions can be applied to theembodiment described above.

The number, shape and size of the drum inserts and drums can also bevaried in relation to the described and illustrated embodiment Moreover,the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10 for example, could be used as amodel for a device as described in this invention, manufactured inelectronic form, where each insert is composed of a section on adisplay, which, using an appropriate program, could be aligned ormisaligned in relation to the others. In this case, the concept of theremovable insert could be applied using a writing system that allows theuser to align several distinctive elements to form a string.

As an alternative to the example illustrated in FIG. 9, the stepwiserotation means can include at least one axial groove formed in one drumand designed to interact with at least one axial rib on a portion of theadjacent drum or the rod.

The inserts illustrated in the enclosed figures can be different innumber, shape and size; for example, they can consist of cylindricalelements on which the side wall carries at least one distinctiveelement.

In particular, the inserts can be produced in mosaic tessera form forexample, with a quadrangular base carrying a single distinctive element.These tesserae can be attached to the drums or other elements rotatingaround an axis in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis with asnap-on locking system to prevent them from sliding off.

The system used to attach the inserts to the drum can also be different.In the case described above, the inserts are inserted into axial pinsand maintained in axial direction by the interaction with the plan 16 ofthe adjacent drum and/or by a snap-on system that attaches the insertsand makes them easily movable with the application of slight pressure.

As an alternative the drums 12 can comprise radial pins designed forinsertion in seats formed in the inserts. Moreover, locking systems canbe envisaged of the snap-on type for example, to prevent the insertsfrom sliding off the pins and the drums from sliding off the adjacentdrums.

In the FIGS. 13-33, the number 10 identifies another embodiment of thedevice for automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of asingle key code as described in this invention. The elements in commonwith the version already described are identified with their samereference numeral.

According to the embodiment example illustrated in FIG. 13, the devicein question can, for example, assume the shape and size of a key ring oran accessory for application on a computer monitor, or an office desk,and can comprise a plurality of drums 12 designed to rotate around alongitudinal axis 14.

In the example in FIG. 1, eight drums are provided alongside each otherin a direction parallel with axis 14.

An example of embodiment of a drum 12 is illustrated for example inFIGS. 13, 15, and 18, and includes a plurality of lobes 160. In theexample illustrated, six lobes are provided for each drum. Two slots 180are provided in each lobe 160, that pass through the drum in a directionthat is basically parallel to axis 14. Each slot is adapted to receivean insert 34 equipped with at least one face carrying for example, adistinctive element, such as an alphanumeric character or a graphicalsymbol or colour visible inside the assembled device.

Each insert 34 is adapted to be connected in a removable manner to itsrespective drum inside slot 180. In a further possible embodiment, theinserts 34 are manufactured as sheets or plates suitable for insertionin the respective slots 180. The lobe 160 and therefore, the slot 180has a lower closing wall wherein at least one opening 181 is formed forthe insertion of an extractor, not illustrated, that is used to extractthe inserts from the slot.

Each drum comprises a through seat 26 that is basicallycylindrically-shaped and co-axial with axis 14. The seat 26 is boundedby a side wall of the respective drum carrying ribs 240 that run in asame direction parallel to axis 14. According to a possible embodiment,the ribs 240 are preferably distributed uniformly around thecircumference.

The reference numeral 38 is referred to a rod designed to receive thedrums 12 placed alongside each other in the direction of the axis. Thethrough seats 26 form a seat adapted to receive this rod 38 so that itforms the axis 14 around which said drums rotate.

According to a possible embodiment, the rod 38 has a first stop 40fixedly attached to one end of the rod. In the example illustrated inthe figures, the first stop 40 has a disk form from which extends ashoulder 300 with a hole 320 being suitable for housing for example aring 340 or some other attachment system that makes device 10 suitablefor use as a key ring.

According to a possible embodiment, two fins 360 extend in a radialdirection between the first stop 40 and the end of the rod 38, forexample in diametrically opposite directions. The radial extension ofthe fins 360 is greater than the diameter of the rod 38.

The free end of the rod 38, in other words, the end opposite that onecarrying the stop 40, forms a slight radially enlarged section 380.

The numeral 42 identifies a second stop that can be inserted on rod 38on the end opposite to that one carrying the stop 40. This stop isadapted to be attached to the rod to block the drums axially.

According to a possible embodiment, the second stop 42 comprises aring-shaped portion that extends radially to axially lock the drums 12onto the rod. The numeral 420 indicates flexible fins that extend in theaxial direction from the ring portion of the second stop 42. These finsare adapted to lodge the radially enlarged section 380 of rod 38.

Number 22 indicates the stepwise rotation means used to rotate each drumby a pre-determined angle with respect to the immediately adjacent drumand in relation to the rod 38. This means comprises the ribs 240 on thedrums 12, and a specially shaped shaft 460 suitable for being insertedonto the rod 38, coaxially to the rod, and inside the drums 12.

The specially shaped shaft 460 is hollow, that is, it forms a throughseat 480 adapted to receive the rod 38.

According to a possible embodiment, a baffle plate 500 is envisaged at adetermined axial position of the specially shaped shaft 460. The baffleplate 500 includes a hole 520 with a radial extension that is less thanthat of the through seat 480 but in any case, suitable for lodging therod 38, for example through a interference fit.

According to a possible embodiment, the numeral 540 refers to two slotsset in axial direction for a certain portion of the side surface thatforms the through seat 480 from one end of the specially shaped shaft460. These slots are adapted to receive the fins 360 of the first stop40.

The specially shaped shaft 460 is basically made of hollow cylindricalwall that comprises a complete first portion 460 a that extends forapproximately 180°, and a second portion 460 b that bears several radialnotches 560 that form a series of axial sectors with various shapes. Thefirst axial sectors identified with number 580 a have a basicallysemi-cylindrical shape as an extension of the first portion 460 a. Thesecond axial sectors identified with numeral 580 b have a basicallysemi-cylindrical shape with a radius that is slightly smaller than axialsectors 580 a, and include a tooth 600 that extends radially outside theradial dimensions of the first sectors 580 a. Each tooth 600 is adaptedto be lodged between two adjacent ribs 240 on a drum 12. The number ofthe second sectors 580 b is foreseen as being the same as the number ofdrums 12 and each respective second sector is in alternate position witha respective first sector 580 a. The specially shaped shaft 460 ismanufactured in a material suitable to make the teeth 600 elastic andflexible.

According to a possible embodiment the number 640 indicates washersdesigned for insertion on the specially shaped shaft 460 in determinedaxial positions. According to a possible embodiment each washer 640comprises a plurality of lobes 660 preferably the same number as thelobes 160 set on the drums 12 in the illustrated example in the figures.Four washers have been provided in the example illustrated in thefigures.

Below is a description of the assembly and the method for using thedevice for automatic reading of a plurality of codes through a singlekey code as described previously.

The inserts are combined with the relative drums by choosing the insertand the respective visible face according to the key code and the codesto be remembered, as described in the previous example.

The specially shaped shaft 460 is co-axially inserted on the rod 38 sothat the fins 360 are inserted into the slots 540. The mechanicalcoupling by insertion of the fins into the slots prevents the speciallyshaped shaft from rotating around the axis 14.

Then the first drum is positioned so as to abut against the first stop40.

The tooth 600 of the respective axial sector is inserted between twoadjacent ribs 240 of drum 12.

The following elements are positioned on the specially shaped shaft 46in order: a washer 640, two more drums 12, a washer 640, two more drums12, a washer 640, two more drums 12, a washer 640 and a final drum.

Lastly the second stop 42 is inserted so that the flexible fins 420 areblocked there where the rod 38 has the radially enlarged section 380.

Hence, the rod 38, the first stop 40, the second stop 42 with itsflexible fins form means for aligning the strings (drums) in parallelmode so as to line up the distinctive elements of several strings in adirection that is essentially transversal to the direction of the stringitself. Should the rod 38 be not envisaged, the stops can be directlymounted on the specially shaped shaft 460.

The inserts are positioned in a manner so that when the drums 12 areplaced alongside, the inserts of the adjacent drums form columns in theaxial direction. The inserts are inserted in the respective drums toform a string so that the first column that composes the key codecorresponds with the adjacent columns that form the codes to beremembered. Therefore when the key code is composed in its respectivecolumn, the other strings will automatically form the codes to beremembered (Bank distributor, mobile phone etc.) On the other hand, whenthe drums are rotated and the inserts of the adjacent strings aremisaligned, the codes to be remembered are not immediately readable.

The device function mode during rotation is illustrated for example inFIGS. 31-33. In rest position (FIG. 31) the tooth 600 is insertedbetween two adjacent ribs 240.

When the respective drum is rotated, the tooth 600 is pushed radiallyinwards (FIG. 32) or it bends in a direction at a tangent to pass overthe rib 240. As soon as the rib has been passed, the tooth returnsresiliently to its original form (FIG. 33).

The provision of said stepwise rotation means allows a precisionpositioning of the drums to be achieved, while maintaining a simplecompact structure at the same time.

It is clear that variants and/or additions to the above described andillustrated embodiments can be foreseen.

According to a possible embodiment a further stop can be provided at oneend of the specially shaped shaft 460, for example such end where slots540 are located. This further stop could take the form of a circularring extending radially from the specially shaped shaft 460 and lockingthe drums 12 in place. This stop on the shaft 460 abuts against thefirst stop 40 on rod 38. In this case the drums can be easily arrangedon the specially shaped shaft 460 even before the shaft is fitted on therod 38.

According to a possible further embodiment the drums can be arrangedalongside each other without the need for the insertion of the washers640.

The FIGS. 34-36 illustrate a possible embodiment of the device accordingto the present invention including four units 10 a which have the samestructure or a similar one to that of the previously described device10. In particular, the drums of each unit comprise a plurality of lobesor teeth so that the lobes of one unit are inserted in the cavitiesbetween two lobes on the adjacent unit. Locking means are functionallyassociated to the ends of such units so to maintain them side by sidebut to allow their rotation around the respective longitudinal axis.Such means is composed for example of a ring A that connects the ends ofunit 10 a, for example through insertion in holes provided for thispurpose.

Said variant is conceived to operate in a way so that the rotation of arespective drum of one unit will cause the rotation of the correspondingrespective drum of the adjacent unit, as if they were two gear wheelsmeshing together.

The original provision of a plurality of units allows a larger number ofpossible combinations and therefore a larger number of codes to beachieved, that can be contained in the device.

Obviously the number of the units 10 a and the respective lobes, theirshape and the number of drums can vary with respect to the versiondescribed.

In all the variants described and/or illustrated, the number, shape andsize of the drum inserts and the drums can vary with respect to theversions already described and illustrated. The number of lobes or theshape of the drum can also vary.

The system used to fix the insert to the drum can also be designeddifferently.

In the case where a specially shaped shaft is envisaged the rod can beomitted, using the shaft only.

Or a rod can be adopted with a square or cross-shaped cross-section.

In all the embodiments of the present invention, at least two drums (orat least two strings) can be provided, each one comprising at least twoinserts.

In order to satisfy specific and associated needs, those skilled in theart will be able to modify, adapt and replace certain elements of thepreferred above described embodiment of the device with functionallyequivalent ones, while still remaining within the scope of the followingclaims.

1. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means ofa key code comprising: a plurality of inserts having at least onevisible face suitable for carrying distinctive elements, said insertsbeing combined in a movable manner, so that the distinctive elementsapplied to at least one visible face of every insert form a plurality ofstrings, means for positioning said strings alongside each other inparallel mode so as to align the distinctive elements of several stringsaccording to a direction that is substantially transversal with respectto the direction of the strings, the first distinctive elements of eachstring forming the key code, the second distinctive elements of eachstring forming a code to be remembered, and wherein the N^(th)distinctive element of each string forms the N^(th) code to beremembered, and means for varying the relative position between at leasttwo strings from the initial configuration, wherein when the key code isformed it is possible to read the other codes on the strings intransversal direction, to a position in which the distinctive elementsof at least one string appear misaligned compared to the distinctiveelements of the other strings.
 2. Device for the automatic reading of aplurality of codes by means of a key code as described in claim 1,comprising: a plurality of drums designed to rotate around an axis andsaid plurality of inserts having visible faces carrying distinctiveelements, said inserts being connected in a movable manner along theside edge of each of said drums to form said strings, wherein said drumscan be adjacently positioned in an axial direction in order to align thedistinctive elements of the plurality of drums.
 3. Device for theautomatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 2 wherein said drums comprise at least one axial pindesigned for insertion in a seat formed in one of said inserts. 4.Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of akey code according to claim 3, wherein said at least one axial or radialpin includes a snap-on locking means to prevent said inserts fromslipping out of position.
 5. Device for the automatic reading of aplurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 2, whereinsaid drums include at least one radial pin adapted to be inserted in aseat formed in one of said inserts.
 6. Device for the automatic readingof a plurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 5,wherein said at least one axial or radial pin includes a snap-on lockingmeans to prevent said inserts from slipping out of position.
 7. Devicefor the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 2, wherein at least one of said inserts is aquadrangular based prism, each of the side faces carrying a distinctiveelement.
 8. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes bymeans of a key code according to claim 2, wherein at least one of saidinserts is a cylindrical element whose side wall carries at least onedistinctive element.
 9. Device for the automatic reading of a pluralityof codes by means of a key code according to claim 2, wherein at leastone of said inserts is a triangular based prism, each one of the sidefaces carrying a distinctive element.
 10. Device for the automaticreading of a plurality of codes by means of a key code according toclaims 7 or 9 wherein said drums comprise quadrangular prism insertsalternating with triangular based prism inserts.
 11. Device for theautomatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 2, wherein said drums comprise at least one slotadapted to receive an insert.
 12. Device for the automatic reading of aplurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 11, whereinat least one of said slots extends inside the drum in a direction thatis substantially parallel to the said axis.
 13. Device for the automaticreading of a plurality of codes by means of a key code according toclaim 12, wherein said inserts are manufactured as a sheet or platematerial suitable for insertion in the respective slots.
 14. Device forthe automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 11, wherein said inserts are manufactured as a sheetor plate material suitable for insertion in the respective slots. 15.Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of akey code according to claim 2, wherein at least one of said drumsincludes at least one lobe.
 16. Device for the automatic reading of aplurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 15, whereinat least one of said drums includes a plurality of lobes.
 17. Device forthe automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 16 wherein each lobe has at least one slot, adaptedto receive an insert.
 18. Device for the automatic reading of aplurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 16, whereineach lobe has two slots, each one suitable for receiving an insert. 19.Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of akey code according to claim 15 wherein each lobe has at least one slot,adapted to receive an insert.
 20. Device for the automatic reading of aplurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 15, whereineach lobe has two slots, each one suitable for receiving an insert. 21.Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of akey code according to claim 2, wherein a rod is provided that issuitable for receiving said drums positioned adjacently in an axialdirection, said drums possessing a through seat to receive said rod. 22.Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of akey code according to claim 21, wherein said rod comprises a first stopfixedly attached to one end of the rod itself.
 23. Device for theautomatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 22, wherein said first stop has a radial extensionequal to the radial extension of the drums.
 24. Device for the automaticreading of a plurality of codes by means of a key code according toclaim 23, wherein said rod comprises a second stop that can be insertedonto the opposite end of the rod from said first stop and is adapted tobe fixed to the rod itself.
 25. Device for the automatic reading of aplurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 22, whereinsaid rod comprises a second stop that can be inserted onto the oppositeend of the rod from said first stop and is adapted to be fixed to therod itself.
 26. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codesby means of a key code according to claim 25, wherein a locking memberis provided to prevent said drums and said second stop from slippingfrom their position.
 27. Device for the automatic reading of a pluralityof codes by means of a key code according to claim 25, wherein saidsecond stop comprises flexible fins designed to be attached to one endof the rod.
 28. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codesby means of a key code according to claim 2, wherein stepwise rotationmeans are provided to rotate each drum by a pre-determined angle. 29.Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of akey code according to claim 28, wherein said drums comprise a hollowcylindrical seat co-axial with said longitudinal axis and a side wallwith at least one axial groove adapted to interact with axial ribs orblades formed on a portion of the adjacent drum.
 30. Device for theautomatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 28, wherein said drums include a hollow cylindricalseat that is coaxial with said longitudinal axis, and including a sidewall with at least one knurled axial portion adapted to interact withaxial ribs or blades on a portion of the adjacent drum.
 31. Device forthe automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 28, wherein said drums include a hollow cylindricalseat that is co-axial with said longitudinal axis and including a sidewall with at least one axial groove adapted to interact with axial ribson a rod.
 32. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codesby means of a key code according to claim 28, wherein said stepwiserotation means comprise a specially shaped shaft on which said drums aremounted, said shaped shaft comprising at least one tooth suitable forinsertion between two grooves in a through seat formed in at least oneof the said drums.
 33. Device for the automatic reading of a pluralityof codes by means of a key code according to claim 32, wherein saidspecially shaped shaft is manufactured from a resiliently conformablematerial that is flexibly movable during the rotation of drums aroundsaid axis.
 34. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codesby means of a key code according to claim 33, wherein said speciallyshaped shaft includes a first portion consisting of a complete wall anda second portion provided with incisions that form at least two axialsectors.
 35. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes bymeans of a key code according to claim 33, wherein said specially shapedshaft comprises a first portion consisting of a complete wall and asecond portion with incisions that form a series in sequence of axialsectors.
 36. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes bymeans of a key code according to claim 32, wherein said specially shapedshaft includes a first portion consisting of a complete wall and asecond portion provided with incisions that form at least two axialsectors.
 37. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes bymeans of a key code according to claim 36, wherein at least one of thesaid axial sectors comprises said at least one tooth.
 38. Device for theautomatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 36, wherein at least a first axial sector has anessentially semi-cylindrical shape as an extension of the first portion.39. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means ofa key code according to claim 38, wherein at least a second axial sectorhas an essentially semi-cylindrical shape with a radius slightly smallerthan at least one said first axial sector.
 40. Device for the automaticreading of a plurality of codes by means of a key code according toclaim 39, wherein said at least one second axial sector includes said atleast one tooth that extends radially further beside the radialdimension of said at least one first axial sector.
 41. Device for theautomatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 32, wherein said specially shaped shaft comprises afirst portion consisting of a complete wall and a second portion withincisions that form a series in sequence of axial sectors.
 42. Devicefor the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 41, wherein at least one of the said axial sectorscomprises said at least one tooth.
 43. Device for the automatic readingof a plurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 32,wherein said specially shaped shaft is hollow and has a seat that isco-axial with said axis.
 44. Device for the automatic reading of aplurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 43, whereinsaid specially shaped hollow shaft is adapted to house a rod.
 45. Devicefor the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 44, wherein said specially shaped shaft includes abaffle plate provided at a determined axial position within the seat ofthe specially shaped shaft and provided with a hole with a radialextension adapted to house the rod.
 46. Device for the automatic readingof a plurality of codes by means of a key code according to claim 45,wherein said specially shaped shaft includes two slots that extend inthe axial direction and are suitable for receiving fins attached to therod.
 47. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes bymeans of a key code according to claim 44, wherein said specially shapedshaft includes two slots that extend in the axial direction and aresuitable for receiving fins attached to the rod.
 48. Device for theautomatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 2, wherein washers are provided for insertion betweentwo adjacent drums.
 49. Device for the automatic reading of a pluralityof codes by means of a key code according to claim 2, wherein at leastone of said inserts includes a tessera that is fixed to the respectivedrum in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis.
 50. Device forthe automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 49, wherein said at least one insert is fixed to therespective drum through a snap-on locking system, to prevent theelements from sliding from their position.
 51. Device for the automaticreading of a plurality of codes by means of a key code according toclaim 2, wherein at least two units are provided, which are adjacent toone another and include a plurality of drums having lobes or teeth, thelobes of one unit meshing with the lobes of the adjacent units. 52.Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of akey code according to claim 51, wherein locking means are operativelyassociated to the ends of the units to maintain them in the radialdirection position.
 53. Device for the automatic reading of a pluralityof codes by means of a key code according to claim 1 wherein at leastone of said inserts carries pre-printed distinctive elements.
 54. Devicefor the automatic reading of a plurality of codes by means of a key codeaccording to claim 1, wherein at least one of said inserts has at leastone visible face suitable for writing or engraving said distinctiveelements.
 55. Device for the automatic reading of a plurality of codesby means of a key code according to claim 1, wherein said inserts aremanufactured in the form of sections on a display adapted to be alignedor misaligned in relation to one another.